The first report of the cassava lace bug (Hemiptera: Tingidae) and their impact on cassava plants on Sumatra Island, Indonesia

Abstract The cassava lace bug (Hemiptera: Tingidae), an invasive pest from South America, has significantly threatened cassava ( Manihot esculenta ) cultivation in Indonesia. The study aimed to identify lace bug species and assess their impact on cassava in Lima Puluh Kota Regency, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Systematic random sampling was conducted across 15 locations in five sub-districts of Lima Puluh Kota Regency, West Sumatra. Population density was assessed at three leaf positions (upper, middle, lower) using 50 to 90 plants per location. Damage severity was evaluated using a 0–5 scale, and morphological identification confirmed species identity. The study results indicate that morphological identification confirmed Vatiga illudens as the species infesting cassava plants in Limapuluh Kota District. Two-way ANOVA revealed highly significant effects of leaf position (F₂,₄₅ = 53.576, p < 0.001, ηₚ 2 = 0.994), location (F₄,₃₀ = 82.31, p < 0.001), and their interaction (F₈,₃₀ = 30.19, p < 0.001) on population density. Clear vertical stratification was observed: lower leaves (129.69 ± 5.18 individuals/leaf) > middle leaves (80.97 ± 2.01) > upper leaves (25.79 ± 1.25). Akabiluru district showed the highest infestation levels (82.32 ± 0.58 individuals/leaf) compared to other locations. Nymph populations dominated lower and middle leaf positions, while adults were more abundant on upper leaves. All sites exhibited 100% plant infestation with moderate damage intensity (38.11–47.57%). The entomopathogenic fungus Lecanicillium lecanii was identified infecting lace bugs. This first record confirms V. illudens establishment in Sumatra with significant ecological impact, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated pest management and surveillance programs.